Stewart died on October 28, 2026, at his home in Los Angeles, following a battle with Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia.
His longtime spokesperson, Kelly Bush Novak, said the actor spent his final moments surrounded by family and friends, with his wife, Sunny Ozell, by his side.
“He has been held in the warm embrace of family and friends, surrounded by live music, prayer, tears, laughter and the kind of profound emotion that only he could inspire after a lifetime of devotion to us all,” the statement said.
Born on July 13, 1940, in Mirfield, West Yorkshire, England, Stewart developed an interest in acting at an early age before building a distinguished career in theatre.
He joined the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1966, where he spent 16 years performing in productions of some of William Shakespeare’s most celebrated works.
His international breakthrough came in 1987 when he was cast as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation, a role that made him a household name among science-fiction audiences.
He later gained another generation of fans through his portrayal of Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men film series, appearing in several installments of the franchise.
Stewart was knighted in 2010 for his services to drama and remained active in the entertainment industry for decades.
His death has prompted tributes from fellow actors and colleagues.
Actor Ian McKellen, his longtime friend and X-Men co-star, described him as a man whose Yorkshire roots shaped his character and identity.
“Before everything else, Patrick was defined by being born and bred in Yorkshire,” McKellen wrote in a tribute.
Stewart leaves behind a legacy spanning theatre, television and film, with performances that introduced Shakespearean acting to audiences across generations.
Stewart died on October 28, 2026, at his home in Los Angeles.
The 33-year-old star shared selfies showing off her new look on Instagram on Thursday, October 22, 2026. The hairstyle features a deep side part and flipped ends, giving her a different appearance from the ponytail that has become one of her most recognisable features.
Grande, known for hits including “Thank U, Next” and “7 Rings,” ended her Instagram post with a photograph of one of her dogs.
The transformation marks a notable change for the singer, who has maintained variations of her signature ponytail throughout much of her career.
Her new look comes as she prepares for the next phase of her acting career, with her upcoming film, Focker-in-Law, scheduled to arrive in cinemas on November 25, 2026.
Grande has previously indicated that she intends to take an extended break from public appearances after completing her Eternal Sunshine Tour and promoting the film.
In August, a representative told PEOPLE that the singer planned to step back from public visibility after the tour, citing the ongoing public scrutiny she had faced.
“She looks forward to finishing the tour and ending it on a high note, both healthily and happily, and then taking a much-deserved break from public-facing work and appearances,” the representative said.
Despite her plans to reduce her public appearances, Grande remains committed to promoting Focker-in-Law, according to a source who spoke to PEOPLE in September.
The hairstyle reveal also follows a difficult period for the singer. On October 19, she announced the death of her dog Coco, who had been part of her life for more than 17 years.
In an emotional Instagram tribute, Grande described Coco as the “sweetest, most amazing and most beautiful” companion, sharing photographs and videos documenting their years together.
“Thank you for your love, and for blessing this planet with your physical presence for over seventeen wonderful years,” she wrote.
Grande has built a successful career spanning music and acting. In recent years, she gained renewed attention for portraying Glinda in the film adaptations of the musical Wicked.
Her latest hairstyle change offers fans a fresh look at the star as she balances her acting commitments with plans to spend more time away from the public eye.
With her retro bob replacing a hairstyle closely associated with her image, Grande’s latest appearance has introduced a new chapter in her evolving personal style.
American singer and actress Ariana Grande debuts a sleek, retro-inspired bob, trading her signature high ponytail for a fresh look shared with fans on Instagram.
The continental franchise brings together housemates from across French-speaking African countries in a high-stakes game of secrecy, strategy, and social dynamics.
Kabagire, widely known for hosting the fashion show InStyle on Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA), is among the housemates competing for a grand prize of more than CFA francs 20 million (approximately Rwf50 million).
Now in its third season, the show features around 20 contestants representing 16 Francophone African nations. Previous winners include Ivorian model Awa Sanoko, who took home the crown in the inaugural 2024 season, and Niger’s Moctar, who won the second edition in 2025.
Filmed at a specialized studio complex in Johannesburg, South Africa, Secret Story Afrique places contestants in a fully monitored house where they are completely isolated from the outside world, without access to mobile phones or television.
Each contestant enters the house guarding a personal secret. To stay in the game and build the prize pot, participants must protect their own secrets while attempting to uncover those held by fellow housemates through observation, social maneuvering, and strategic guessing.
Produced by Banijay Entertainment S.A., the three-month season airs on CANAL+ Pop from Monday to Friday at 8:15 p.m., with a weekly recap episode broadcasting on CANAL+ Magic on Saturdays at 10:30 p.m.
Secret Story Afrique is the continental adaptation of the hit French reality television format, which debuted on TF1 in 2007 and has run across European networks including RTL Plug for nearly two decades.
Kabagire follows in the footsteps of fellow Rwandan France Mpundu, who represented the country in the second season, finishing fourth overall. Mpundu’s run made headlines beyond the game after she accepted a marriage proposal from eventual season winner Moctar during the show’s finale period.
Kabagire, widely known for hosting the fashion show InStyle on Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA), is among the housemates competing for a grand prize of more than CFA francs 20 million (approximately Rwf50 million).
The 33-year-old singer paid tribute to Parton by performing “Jolene”, one of the country star’s most famous songs, while reflecting on their close relationship and the memories they shared.
According to People magazine, Cyrus spoke to the audience before the performance, recalling the only time she had watched Parton perform live at the Hollywood Bowl.
Cyrus explained that she had wanted to experience the concert as an ordinary fan rather than join her godmother on stage.
Parton agreed, but later surprised the audience by performing “The Best of Both Worlds”, the theme song from Hannah Montana, and announcing that Cyrus was watching from the crowd.
Cyrus said the memory had become particularly meaningful following Parton’s death.
“Like so many things Dolly did, that I didn’t understand it at the time, sitting here with you all right now, feeling her all around me, knowing that she’s right here beside me every day, all the time, more than she could be when she was here,” she told the audience.
She added that sharing the story made the experience even more precious.
“This memory is gold to me,” Cyrus said.
Overcome with emotion, the singer also spoke about the enduring bond between them.
“Me and Dolly, we are eternal. Nothing in this life could tear us apart,” she said, adding that she looked forward to seeing her godmother again because she missed her.
Parton died on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80, leaving behind a musical legacy that influenced generations of artists.
Cyrus had known Parton since birth. The country star became her godmother after developing a close friendship with Cyrus’s father, singer Billy Ray Cyrus, during the 1990s.
Their relationship extended beyond family ties into their professional lives.
Parton appeared as a recurring character on Hannah Montana, the Disney Channel series that helped launch Cyrus’s career, playing her character’s fairy godmother in three episodes between 2006 and 2010.
The two singers also collaborated on music, including a version of Cyrus’s 2013 hit “Wrecking Ball” for Parton’s 2023 album Rockstar.
Cyrus affectionately referred to Parton as “Aunt Dolly” and previously credited her with teaching her the importance of treating people with love and respect.
Following Parton’s death, Cyrus shared a heartfelt message on social media, describing their most meaningful moments as private memories that would remain between them.
The Hollywood Bowl tribute offered another public expression of that relationship, celebrating not only Parton’s music but also the lasting influence she had on Cyrus’s life.
Miley Cyrus performs “Jolene” in tribute to her late godmother, Dolly Parton, during a concert at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on October 16, 2026.
Kibonge made the remarks after screening his film Identity in Memphis, Tennessee, on October 16, 2026. He shared footage from the event alongside a message praising the President.
“A night for my Movies in Memphis. There is nothing PK [a nickname commonly used by young people to refer to President Paul Kagame] would not do for us,” he said.
Kibonge produced Identity in France while attending the Off Courts Festival, where the film was first screened in September 2026.
He is among four Rwandans who travelled to the United States through a partnership between Mashariki Arts Academy and Hattiloo Theatre in Memphis. The programme aims to strengthen the skills of professionals working in the arts and theatre industry.
The other participants are Emmanuel Mugisha, Simon Iyarwema, Clémence Nahimana, known artistically as Feruje na Shenge, and Adolphe Shyaka.
As part of the programme, Kibonge is expected to take part in a month-long training programme. He is also scheduled to meet fans in Austin, Texas, on October 17, 2026.
The event in Austin was organised in collaboration with Joshua Ramjaane, a Rwandan entertainer based in the United States.
Kibonge and Ramjaane previously performed together as members of a comedy group known as Abanyagasani.
Clapton Kibonge set to perform in Austin, TexasClapton Kibonge screens his film in the United StatesClapton Kibonge heads to Texas after film screening, invited by former ‘Abanyagasani’ colleague.
The 56-year-old rapper was moved from the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Fort Dix to FCI Allenwood Low, a low-security prison located near Williamsport, Pennsylvania, according to The Associated Press (AP), which cited a person familiar with the matter.
The US Bureau of Prisons confirmed the transfer but declined to explain the reasons behind the decision.
“Decisions about inmate placement are made by the BOP, and we are not in a position to speak to the circumstances surrounding this transfer,” Combs’ spokesperson, Juda Engelmayer, said.
He added that Combs remained focused on moving forward and expressed hope that his time at the new facility would be productive and free from unnecessary disruption.
The transfer comes after NBC News reported in September that Combs had allegedly maintained aspects of his wealthy lifestyle while imprisoned at Fort Dix.
The report claimed he had access to prohibited items, including alcohol and a cellphone, and that other inmates prepared meals, cleaned for him and provided massages.
The allegations raised questions about whether the music executive was receiving preferential treatment in prison.
Earlier this week, entertainment news outlet TMZ reported that Combs had been injured in a fight with another inmate and taken out of the facility for medical treatment.
However, the Bureau of Prisons rejected the report. In a statement to AP, the agency said: “The story you are referring to is false and did not happen.”
Following the NBC News report, Combs was placed in a special housing unit, a more restricted area used for inmates facing disciplinary issues or security concerns.
A person familiar with the matter also told AP that Combs had lost 41 days of good-conduct credit, pushing his projected release date to March 2, 2028.
Combs is serving a four-year, two-month prison sentence after being convicted in 2025 on prostitution-related charges involving the transportation of people across state lines for sexual encounters.
He was acquitted of more serious sex trafficking and racketeering charges.
In April 2026, his lawyers asked the 2nd US Circuit Court of Appeals to overturn his conviction and sentence, arguing that the punishment was too harsh. The court has yet to issue a ruling.
The transfer marks another development in the legal troubles of one of the most influential figures in American hip-hop, whose criminal case has drawn widespread public attention.
Sean “Diddy” Combs has been transferred from a federal prison in New Jersey to FCI Allenwood Low in Pennsylvania while serving a sentence for prostitution-related offences.
The organisers are yet to announce the full lineup of artists and DJs expected to perform at the event.
Improper Access debuted on August 30, 2024, at Kigali Universe, with a focus on showcasing female artists and DJs.
The inaugural edition featured Nigerian artist Dopecaesar, Ugandan singer Etania, and Rwandan DJs Brianne, Sonia and Alida, alongside Senshi.
The event returned for its second edition on June 28, 2025, at Zaria Court Kigali, with South African DJ Blue Aiva as the headline act.
Other performers included Rwandan DJs Niny and Higa, as well as artists Zuba, Muyango and Etania.
Knowless will take centre stage at the upcoming edition, bringing her experience in Rwanda’s music industry and a catalogue of songs that have earned her a strong following.
She is among Rwanda’s established musicians, having built a career spanning more than a decade. In 2015, she won the Primus Guma Guma Super Star competition, becoming the first woman to claim the title.
Butera Knowless to headline ‘Improper Access’ music eventButera Knowless is set to perform at ‘Improper Access’ for the first time.
Davis, 63, was sentenced on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, by Judge Carli Kierny in Las Vegas, Nevada. The sentence comprises 20 years to life for first-degree murder and an additional consecutive 20 years to life for a deadly weapon enhancement.
Under the US sentencing system, a sentence of “40 years to life” means Davis must serve a minimum of 40 years in prison before he can be considered for parole, subject to applicable rules and credits. It does not guarantee his release after 40 years. If parole is denied, he could remain in prison for the rest of his life.
Shakur was murdered at the age of 25, leaving behind a musical legacy that continues to influence hip-hop worldwide.
Even with credit for time served, Davis is not expected to become eligible for parole until he is approximately 100 years old. He has indicated that he intends to appeal the conviction.
Prosecutors argued that Davis deserved the maximum sentence, citing his criminal history and public statements about his involvement in the events surrounding Shakur’s killing.
Shakur was shot on September 7, 1996, while travelling in a BMW near the Las Vegas Strip. He died six days later, aged 25, leaving behind a musical legacy that continues to influence hip-hop worldwide.
According to prosecutors, the killing was linked to an earlier confrontation in which Shakur’s entourage assaulted Orlando “Baby Lane” Anderson, Davis’ nephew. Investigators alleged that the shooting was carried out in retaliation for the incident.
Davis, a former member of the South Side Compton Crips, later spoke publicly about the killing. In interviews and a 2019 memoir, he acknowledged being inside the white Cadillac that pulled alongside Shakur’s vehicle. Prosecutors alleged that Anderson fired the fatal shots.
The case remained unsolved for decades before Davis was arrested and charged in September 2023, becoming the only person charged in connection with Shakur’s death.
During the sentencing hearing, Shakur’s sister, Sekyiwa Shakur, described the devastating impact of losing her brother and called for the maximum punishment.
“I spent 30 years without my protection,” she told the court, reflecting on the loss of a brother she described as a father figure.
Friends and family members of rapper Tupac Shakur, including his sister Sekyiwa Shakur, second to left, line up to hug Chief Deputy District Attorney Binu Palal, right, after a jury found Duane Davis guilty of first-degree murder on August 31, 2026, in Las Vegas.
She also urged the judge to impose the longest possible sentence, saying, “I do believe that when you take a life like that, you deserve every minute, every minute of the maximum amount of punishment.”
Shakur’s stepbrother, Maurice Shakur, also addressed the court, describing the family’s suffering following the rapper’s death. “The impact from my brother’s murder has been devastating, heartbreaking and sad,” he said.
Judge Kierny also addressed the lasting consequences of the killing, emphasising that the loss extended beyond the victim to the family he left behind.
“You don’t get to take a man from his family, you don’t get to take his very life, his whole future from him and just walk away from it, especially when that man is Tupac Shakur,” she said.
Davis, meanwhile, indicated that the legal battle may not be over.
“I’m gonna appeal this case for sure,” he said, signalling his intention to challenge the conviction.
Shakur’s murder became one of the most enduring mysteries in hip-hop, with his music and influence continuing to shape the genre decades after his death.
Duane ‘Keffe D’ Davis arrives for a sentencing hearing on October 13, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The spokesperson said Mitte died on Monday, October 12, 2026. His representatives later confirmed that the actor died by suicide.
The Brownsville Police Department told reporters that officers responded to an emergency call around midday on Monday and found the actor deceased at his residence. Police noted that no foul play was suspected.
In a statement, Mitte’s family confirmed his passing and paid tribute to his work advocating for people with disabilities. He served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s and supported charitable initiatives through The Mitte Foundation.
The family said he used his public profile to challenge stereotypes and promote greater representation of people with disabilities.
Mitte, who lived with cerebral palsy, played Walter White Jr., the son of Bryan Cranston’s character, Walter White, throughout all five seasons of Breaking Bad. The series aired on AMC from 2008 to 2013 and became one of television’s most acclaimed dramas.
Cranston expressed deep sorrow over his former co-star’s death, recalling meeting Mitte when he was 14 and had just been cast in the series. He praised the young actor’s determination, saying he never allowed cerebral palsy to prevent him from pursuing his ambitions.
“I loved him, and thoroughly enjoyed being with him throughout the years on the series, and after the spotlight on Breaking Bad dimmed,” Cranston said. “I’ll miss you, son.”
Mitte began pursuing acting after moving to Hollywood with his family at the age of 14. His early appearances included roles in television shows such as Everybody Hates Chris and 7th Heaven before landing his breakthrough role in Breaking Bad.
Beyond the flagship series, he appeared in the television drama Switched at Birth and starred in the 2021 film Triumph, which follows a high school student with cerebral palsy who seeks to join a wrestling team.
Mitte often spoke about the importance of portraying people with disabilities accurately in film and television, drawing on his own experiences growing up with the condition.
His death prompted widespread tributes from fellow Breaking Bad cast members, including Aaron Paul and Dean Norris, as well as AMC Networks, which described him as an actor who left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
RJ Mitte, the actor best known for portraying Walter White Jr. in the acclaimed television series Breaking Bad,died at the age of 34.
Rwanda has selected Ben’Imana, a feature film directed by filmmaker Marie-Clémentine Dusabejambo, as its first official submission to the Academy Awards, marking a significant milestone for the country’s film industry.
The Ministry of Youth and Arts announced on October 9, 2026, that the film had been chosen by the Rwanda Oscar Selection Committee to represent the country in the International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards.
The selection marks Rwanda’s first entry into the international feature film category of the Oscars, one of the world’s most prominent film awards.
“Rwanda’s first submission to the Academy Awards is a proud milestone for our film industry and a testament to the talent, creativity and determination of Rwandan filmmakers. BEN’IMANA demonstrates the power of cinema to tell meaningful stories rooted in our history and lived experiences, while connecting with audiences around the world,” said Sandrine Umutoni, Minister of State for Youth and Arts.
The submission does not automatically mean the film has been nominated, as it must still pass through the Academy’s selection process.
Ben’Imana made history earlier in 2026 when it premiered in the Un Certain Regard section of the Cannes Film Festival, becoming the first film directed by a Rwandan filmmaker to feature in the festival’s Official Selection.
The film subsequently won the Caméra d’Or, an award recognising outstanding first features presented across Cannes’ selections, as well as the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) Prize.
Set in Rwanda in 2012, eighteen years after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Ben’Imana explores the difficult process of confronting painful memories, rebuilding relationships and pursuing reconciliation within communities affected by the genocide.
The story follows Vénéranda, a woman who has spent years helping survivors and the families of those responsible confront painful silences surrounding the past.
However, when her daughter’s future becomes intertwined with that history, she is forced to reconsider the limits of her own capacity for forgiveness.
Through the experiences of three generations of women, the film examines memory, inherited silence, reconciliation and the challenges of rebuilding lives after tragedy.
The cast includes Isabelle Kabano, Clémentine U. Nyirinkindi and Kesia Kelly Nishimwe. The film was produced through an international collaboration involving Rwanda, Gabon, France, Norway and Côte d’Ivoire, with filming carried out entirely in Rwanda.
Dusabejambo is a self-taught Rwandan filmmaker who began her filmmaking journey in 2008.
Before making her first feature film, she gained international recognition through short films including Lyiza, A Place for Myself and Icyasha, which explored themes of identity, discrimination and social experiences.
The Academy is expected to publish the list of eligible international feature films before narrowing the selection to a shortlist of 15 films and, ultimately, five nominees.
Rwandan filmmaker Marie-Clémentine Dusabejambo’s feature film Ben’Imana has been selected as Rwanda’s first official submission to the Academy Awards.
